Tennessee State Law

Memphis Security Deposit Laws: What Renters Need to Know

Under Tenn. Code Ann. §66-28-301, Memphis landlords have 30 days to return your deposit after move-out. Deposit recovery depends on facts if they miss the deadline or make improper deductions.

Check My Memphis Deposit

Memphis Key Rules

Security Deposit Rules at a Glance

Return Deadline

30 days

30 days after move-out, per Tenn. Code Ann. §66-28-301

Penalty if Late

Deposit recovery depends on facts

May apply for failure to comply

Itemization Required

Yes

Written itemization required within 30 days

Common Questions

Memphis Security Deposit FAQ

How long does a landlord in Memphis have to return my security deposit?

Under Tenn. Code Ann. §66-28-301, Tennessee landlords have 30 days after move-out to return your security deposit along with an itemized written statement of any deductions. The clock starts on your official move-out date.

What happens if my Memphis landlord keeps my deposit illegally?

If your landlord fails to return your deposit within the deadline or makes bad-faith deductions, you can recover the full deposit amount plus court costs. This is governed by Tenn. Code Ann. §66-28-301. You can start by sending a formal demand letter and, if necessary, file a claim in Tennessee small claims court (limit: $25,000).

Can my Memphis landlord deduct for normal wear and tear?

No. Tennessee law explicitly prohibits deductions for normal wear and tear. Normal wear and tear refers to the gradual deterioration that results from ordinary use of the property over time, such as minor scuffs, faded paint, or worn carpet. Landlords may only deduct for actual damage beyond normal use that you caused.

How do I dispute a security deposit deduction in Memphis?

Start by sending your landlord a formal written demand letter citing Tenn. Code Ann. §66-28-301. State the amount owed, the deadline violation or improper deductions, and the penalties that apply. If your landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, you can file a small claims court case in Tennessee (limit: $25,000). GetItBack can generate a personalized demand letter for free in under 2 minutes.

Know Your Rights

Your Rights as a Memphis Renter

Timely return: Your landlord must return your deposit within 30 days after move-out. Missing this deadline can entitle you to penalties under Tenn. Code Ann. §66-28-301.
Written itemization: If your landlord makes any deductions, they must provide a written itemized statement within 30 days. Failure to do so can forfeit their right to keep any portion of the deposit.
No normal wear and tear deductions: Tennessee law explicitly prohibits deductions for normal wear and tear. Your landlord cannot charge you for minor scuffs, faded paint, or worn carpet that results from ordinary use.
Penalty enforcement: If your landlord violates the law, you can demand deposit recovery depends on facts. Start with a formal demand letter, then escalate to Tennessee small claims court if needed. The filing limit in Tennessee is $25,000.